A Labradoodle is a hybrid dog that results from crossbreeding a Labrador Retriever and a poodle. Many people cross a certain breed with a poodle because poodles are known for being friendly, intelligent, and shed less hair. In the case of a labradoodle, you never know what you will get unless the health of the previous generations of the two dogs being bred is examined. A common misconception is that breeding these two types of dogs will ensure that their offspring will only have their good traits. On the contrary, it is not possible to pass on solely the good traits of each breed. The good and the bad are mixed together. Good breeders carefully examine the risks involved in breeding these two different breeds and avoid breeding dogs who do not compliment each other’s genetic traits. Unfortunately, many breeders of Labradoodles fail in checking the health risks involved.

Unfortunately, there are health risks involved with producing Labradoodles. Examining the health problems within poodles, it is said that they can suffer from epilepsy, hypothyroidism, corneal dystrophy, Addison’s disease and so much more. Labrador Retrievers’ main health problems are hip and elbow dysplasia, dwarfism, hypothyroidism, and some other concerns. If a breeder fails to test the dogs for carrying any of these diseases, it is not fair the labradoodle offspring that will possibly be produced having to live a life of suffering. Both breeds share the hypothyroidism as a common health concern. Therefore, it is extremely crucial to check the dogs for being carriers. This is why it is so important to get a dog from a trustworthy breeder who will ensure you that the labradoodle’s family line does not include most of these diseases. Careless breeders produce whatever breeds they want just for the money. They do not “waste” their time checking the health of the dogs. In addition, if you make the mistake of buying a labradoodle from an unreliable breeder, you might be putting yourself and your hard earned money on the line. Failing to inquire about the labradoodles’ genetic information before purchasing one will probably empty out your wallet in the future. You will be putting yourself at risk for major financial issues and costs. If your breeder cannot provide any information about the genetics of the dogs, take your business elsewhere! Moreover, labradoodles, in general, are at risk for developing eye problems like cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and retinal dysplasia because these problems are common among many poodles and Labrador Retrievers.

Overall, labradoodles are popular dogs. They are known for making very good pets for various families. If you are serious about getting a labradoodle, please inquire as much information as you can about the health of the dog. After hearing all this information about the risks involved with labradoodles, do not be too discouraged to get one. As long as you are careful with where you get it from, you will probably run into little problems. The good news is that labradoodles are expected to live anywhere from 13 to 15 years.